Features
Sandra Caplan’s Jewish Journey
Recently we received an email from Sandra Caplan from her Florida wintertime home. Sandra told us that she had given a talk to her synagogue sisterhood about her life and wondered whether we might be interested in reprinting it.
Sandra’s life followed a path that would be familiar to many Winnipeg Jews (both present and former). So we thought it would be interesting to reprint the story of Sandra’s life here:
The following document, titled My Jewish Journey, was presented to the Sisterhood of Congregation B’nai Israel on March 10th, 2024. I hosted a brunch at my condo in St. Petersburg and spoke of “My Jewish Journey,” the current Rosh Chodesh topic. I am sending a copy of this to my family so that they will have a better understanding of my life. I wrote this in two sessions without an outline. The words flowed from my heart to my brain, my fingers and then to the written page. Please don’t fact find!!
I had two photos that I always bring with me. One is of Barry and me, the other of my family on my eightieth birthday. I also had an atlas so I could show the Floridians where Winnipeg is located. Now on to my story.
The following document, titled My Jewish Journey, was presented to the Sisterhood of Congregation B’nai Israel on May 10th, 2024. I hosted a brunch at my condo in St. Petersburg and spoke of My Jewish Journey, the current Rosh Chodesh topic. I am sending a copy of this to my family so that they will have a better understanding of my life. I wrote this in two sessions without an outline. The words flowed from my heart to my brain, my fingers and then to the written page. Please don’t fact find!! I had two photos that I always bring with me. One is of Barry and me, the other of my family on my eightieth birthday. I also had an atlas so I could show the Floridians where Winnipeg is located. Now on to my story.
MY JEWISH JOURNEY
I am a Snowbird and live in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Before I speak of My Jewish Journey, I would like to give you a few facts about Winnipeg. It is in the center of Canada and is 2200 miles northwest of St. Petersburg and 500 northwest of Minneapolis. It is a prairie province, and the terrain is flat. The winters are so cold that we often plug our cars into an electric outlet, so that the engine doesn’t freeze. A mild day in the winter would be considered 0 F and a cold day 20 degrees below that. The population in Winnipeg is approximately 750,000 people.
Winnipeg has a Jewish population of about 8,000 people. However, in the 1930’s it was about 20,000. Many young people now leave for what they consider cities with more advantages, such as Toronto, Vancouver and many US cities. Also, families are now smaller. My Mother came from a family of seven and my father from a family of five. Winnipeg has been actively involved in promoting Winnipeg to the Argentinian Jewish community and now has a large group in our community. We also have a large French Canadian, Aboriginal and Filipina presence.
Growing up I always considered that Winnipeg had two areas that the Jewish people lived in-the north end and the south end. I was born in 1939 and lived in the north end. My first recollection is living in a duplex owned by my paternal grandparents who were born in Europe. I was told that the railway line at one point in time ended in Winnipeg and that is why so many Jewish immigrants settled there. Another reason was that there was a homestead plan offered in Manitoba through which new immigrants would be given a plot of land for free if they developed the land. As it turned out the winters were harsh, and the land was inhospitable. The Jewish immigrants were not necessarily experienced in farming and once settled gave up the concept. They turned to commerce and a large percentage of Manitoba’s small towns had Jewish owned general and other stores.
My father was born in Pinsk, Poland. In Winnipeg he became a furrier after high school. My mother was born in Winnipeg and opened a dress shop, Sandra’s, after I was born.
As a young child living on Flora Ave. In the early 1940’s, every house on our street was occupied by Jewish residents. At that time there were about eleven small Orthodox synagogues in the north end. I remember sitting in the balcony at the synagogue with my mother. It was a block from our home. My mother’s parents lived about 10 minutes from our home on Selkirk Ave. My grandmother was a milliner, and her shop was at the front of her home. When my paternal grandparents passed away, the house was sold, and we moved to the south end of the city. I was 5 and after that point can recall much of my Jewish Journey.
In 1945 the south end was considered an upscale area. By this time my father had a men and ladies clothing shop in the Time Bldg. on Portage Ave. My mother still had her shop, Sandra’s. Our family grew with the addition of my brother Frederick (Fred).
Our home on Oxford Street had several Jewish families. The school that I attended for grade one had very few Jewish kids. It was at the time that my parents decided it was time for my Jewish education to begin. There was not a synagogue in the area, but there was talk of the Shaarey Zedek, which we belonged to moving to the south end. So, as I entered grade two, my Jewish education began, and I attended after school Hebrew classes on Mondays and Wednesdays. The other 2 days were for the students in grades four to six. The classes were held in the basement of a home in the area.
My recollections of those days are quite clear. The kosher butcher delivered twice a week. Since my parents both worked, we had a housekeeper who was an excellent cook. On Friday nights we often had company for dinner. I was Jewish, went to Hebrew school had a strong sense of my religion, but attended the synagogue only on the High Holidays and celebrated other important holidays such as Pesach and of course, Chanukah.
In 1949 my sister Marcia was born. In 1950 my father won the Irish Sweepstake. It was a grand sum of $39,500.00. I tried to translate it to today’s dollar. My thinking was that our home at that time cost $12,500.00. We could have bought 3 homes. That large home today of 4 bedrooms, a den and a finished basement could be worth $800,000. So, I estimate it was like winning $2, 400.000.00 today. With this fortune my father bought property on Portage Ave and built Fredric’s, a large store that sold ladies and men’s wear, sportswear, lingerie, had tuxedo rentals and had a bridal shop on the mezzanine floor.
It was about this time that the synagogue in the south end of town opened. It was a beautiful building on the river. I was able to attend Hebrew school here. It was a gathering place for Jewish children. I was a brownie and a girl scout, and both these activities were at the synagogue.
At that time the synagogue was the center of my Jewish and social life. In 1952 I had a Bat Mitzvah. This was a new ceremony at the conservative Shaarey Zedek synagogue. It was held on a Friday night. The Bat Mitzvah celebrant wore a loose, blue satin mid length long sleeved gown. It had a round collar and a white bow at the collar. I recall standing in front of the ark and reciting a prayer that started—O God and God of my Fathers. With grateful heart I stand before thee—. I also recited a haftorah which began-Vah yishlach Shlomo el Hiram laimor. Atah yadatah—. Obviously, I rehearsed this many times so that sixty-one years later I can still remember a small portion. After the service there was a reception in the social hall. We had party sandwiches, a Winnipeg specialty and favorite to this day, dainties as referred to by non Winnipeggers as squares and cookies and luscious cakes and cookies. Winnipeg Bar and Bat Mitzvah tables are well known in Canadian Jewish circles as are our baking is renowned. I can even remember several gifts that I received. A glass duck with a filling of bubble bath and a small wooden chest filled with note paper and envelopes. I still have that chest today. It was a glorious and happy celebration and did not end my Hebrew studies.
I continued going to Hebrew school until I was confirmed at the age of fifteen. For that ceremony I received a white leatherbound prayer book for the High Holidays which I still have today. When I was a teenager, I sang in the synagogue choir on Shabbat and the High Holidays. Our synagogue had a choir loft which was curtained and on the second floor behind the ark. We had about 20 members led by a choir master.
In Winnipeg in 1956 you could enter University after grade eleven, which I chose to do. So, I was sixteen when I enrolled at the University of Manitoba. Everyone with a few exceptions stayed at home to go to university. In those days we had one Jewish sorority, Iota Alpha Pi which I joined and became the president of in my second year of university. We also had 3 Jewish fraternities known as the Sammies, Zebes and Apes. I took Commerce but did not get my BCom because at the end of my third year I got my MRS.
So, this takes me to dating years in Winnipeg. My friends and I would never think of going out with anyone but a Jewish boy. We all married Jewish boys and married very young. I was nineteen when I married Barry who was a doctor and twenty-six years old. We had a large wedding at the Shaarey Zedek the synagogue that my family attended. Looking back, I feel that I was very young, unworldly leaving my parents to go to Los Angels where Barry would be a resident. I was a young girl in a new and different world! It was a challenge. Our Jewish life as we knew it was at a standstill. I had one Aunt and a few cousins that we could visit and we knew one couple from Winnipeg. There was no time to celebrate holidays and no one to really celebrate with.
California, however, was a nice place to live. We had no Winnipeg winters to deal with but also had no family to be with. Four years passed quickly, especially since we had two children. A daughter Susan who was born in 1962 and a son Bruce born in 1963. I also was fortunate to work at AT&T for 3 years.
Although as I previously said we felt like we had lost some of our Jewishness, a Bris was a ceremony that was very important to us. It was up to Barry to make the arrangements. He spoke to some of the Jewish attending doctors at the hospital. He got the name of a mohel and told my mother, who had come to help me, that the mohel had a request. The baby was to wear a cap and gown. I had no knowledge of Brises and my mother thought this was a little odd. However, we were in the United States. Traditions could be different. When Bruce was 4 days old a cousin came to babysit while my mother and I went shopping for a cap and gown. We found Christening gowns and other outfits for babies. Nothing was suitable for a Bris. I heard of a store in Long Beach that perhaps could help us in our search. I had never been to Long Beach but with directions managed to find the store. We found what we thought was a perfect outfit. It was a white cotton Carters gown that was tied at the bottom with a matching bonnet that was tied under the baby’s neck. The day of the Bris arrived and we met the Mohel. His first question to Barry was “did you bring my cap and gown from the hospital”. As an excited father Barry was so happy to find a Mohel he heard only the cap and gown and assumed it was for the baby. Fortunately, we lived a few minutes from the hospital and Barry was able to ge the cap and gown for the Mohel. Later the Mohel remarked that he thought the baby’s outfit was a little strange. Our first, but certainly not our last adventure with our son.
In 1963 we returned to Winipeg and a whole new Jewish Journey for me was established. Barry had a very large, observant family on his maternal and paternal side. So, I became immersed in all the Jewish culture of his family. My side of the family was small, and we were not as close as the Caplan/Stall family. I was twenty-three. A mother of two, naive, inexperienced and the product of a sheltered life. How did I survive? I guess that necessity was a factor. We adapted to life in the city, made friends, and carried on. The Caplan family belonged to the synagogue in the north end of town. My family belonged to the synagogue in the south end. Until our daughter Susan was twelve, we went to Rosh Pina with the Caplans. One incident that I clearly remember took place on the High Holidays in about 1969. We never joined the synagogue as Barry’s parents looked after our High Holiday tickets and with Barry’s work schedule as a Urologist who was on call every third weekend and every third of fourth night, he was not able to commit to going to shule. To get back to the holiday service the Rabbi spoke about membership in the synagogue and its importance in Jewish life. I felt he was looking directly at me as he made this appeal. On the way home I said to Barry that we must join the synagogue. It is a priority in our lives. As Susan’s Bat Mitzvah approached, I had a problem. Our children attended Ramah day school but lessons for your Bar /Bat Mitzvah and the ceremony, took place at the synagogue that you belonged to. In my mind I had no choice. To drive twice a week to the north end when it could be very cold, icy streets and a huge distance of a half hour was beyond my scope of reality. So, we joined the south end Shaarey Zedek Synagogue. Our son Bruce had his Bar Mitzvah in 1976 at the Shaarey Zedek and our son David who was born in 1971 completed this cycle.
While raising my family I was involved in Hadassah and National Council of Jewish Women. I became president of the chapters that I belonged to and was actively involved in both. I also volunteered at the Shaarey Zedek in a lunch program for seniors. Being in shule, whether as a volunteer or at a service or program was always an important part of my life. When my husband Barry retired in December 1999 we started coming to St. Petersburg for the winter. One of our first projects was to find a conservative synagogue. How fortunate we were to discover CBI.When we got home that spring, we started going to service every Saturday and this continued until Barry’s passing. I continued to attend until Covid and the two-year remodeling of our synagogue began. Our renovations are almost complete, and my family and I will be able to return to our beloved Shaarey Zedek for the holidays this year and I will return to my weekly Saturdays at shule.
Jewish holidays are a special time in our family. Last Rosh Hashanah my daughter Susan and I continued the family tradition of a luncheon on the first day of the holiday. This was held at her home. How wonderful that first to fourth cousins, machatunim and those close to the family gather to enjoy this holiday. I have been in touch with a cousin in Winnipeg to check on the first Seder for this year. My children are coming to Winnipeg from Vancouver, and we look forward to enjoying the Seder with the extended family again. This year we will probably have thirty attending but often there are many more.
When I speak of the synagogue and the importance of it in our family life, I cannot help but think of the day of Barry’s passing. I came into his hospital room and his first word was shule. I immediately called the synagogue, spoke to Rabbi Green and within a half hour he was at Barry’s bedside, singing and reciting prayers. How fortunate we are to have a religion and a life that makes us feel involved, loved and able to pass away in what we would consider a dignified and peaceful manner. As I write these words tears stream down my face and I realize how fortunate I am to have been born Jewish.
I truly feel that I could end my Jewish Journey here, but life goes on after the loss of loved ones. For six and a half years I have been a widow. My friends hate that word, but I can’t say that I am alone. That is not true. I have a wonderful family, friends and a full life. I come to Florida for the winter, I can travel with my daughter, I visit my children and grandchildren in Vancouver, I enjoy the cultural life in my two favorite cities and much more.
I feel that life has been good to me. I have three children, six grandchildren, many friends, good health and the ability to enjoy life. I have truly been blessed.
BACK ROW L – R: Sheri Winters, Bruce Caplan, Sandra Caplan, Susan Billinkoff, David Caplan, Cindy Switzer
Front Row L – R: Asher Billinkoff, Maia Caplan, Annie Caplan, Layla Switzer-Caplan, Max Switzer Caplan, Jordan Billinkoff
Features
Israel pavilion ambassadors – then and now
By BERNIE BELLAN Given that Folklorama is on again and the Israel pavilion – Shalom Square, is in full swing, I thought it timely to resurrect an article I first posted to this website in August 2023.
But before reading that article, I wanted you to see who this year’s ambassadors are for Shalom Square:
It was back in 2023, however, that I set out to answer a question that I had asked our readers to help answer: Where was the very first Israel pavilion located? Some readers had thought it was the Golden Age Club, which used to be located on Pritchard and Salter. But others weren’t so sure. Here then is what I wrote back in August 2023 – when, with the help of a librarian at the Winnipeg Public Library, I was able to solve the riddle of where the first Israel pavilion was located:
It was earlier in August 2023 that I had raised a number of questions about the history of the Israel pavilion at Folklorama.
Among those questions were: Where was the first Israel pavilion located and when did the Israel pavilion actually become a permanent fixture in the YMHA on Hargrave (before moving to its current home in the Asper Campus)?
As part of my search for answers to those questions I turned to David Cohen, who had long been the coordinator of the Israel pavilion when it was located on Hargrave, but who didn’t step into that role until 1975.
David thought that the Israel pavilion hadn’t moved to Hargrave until 1974, but he wasn’t sure where the first Israel pavilion had been located.
I tried to find information using the Winnipeg Public Library online digital archive. In case you didn’t know, anyone with a library card can access the library’s online archive. You can also have access to newspaperarchive.com through the library’s digital archive. Newspaperarchive.com is an invaluable reference tool for journalists especially – or anyone wanting to access old newspaper archives, for that matter, but ordinarily you would need a subscription to newspaperarchive.com in order to use it. For some reason, however, the search function in the Winnipeg Public Library’s digital search engine didn’t produce results when I entered the word “Folklorama.”
As a result I called the Winnipeg Public Library for assistance and received great help from someone by the name of Louis-Phillipe. After taking my information, Louis-Phillipe phoned me to say that he had found out that the library had compiled a file of press clippings related to Folklorama going back to the very first year, 1970.
Further, Louis-Phillipe said, he had found a list of the 22 pavilions in that first year of Folklorama, along with where they were located. It turns out that the Israel pavilion was actually located in two different venues that first year: the Rosh Pina and the Shaarey Zedek.
The next day I also heard from reader Phyllis Dana, who confirmed that the Israel Pavilion had been in both synagogues. Phyllis also remembered that the only food served that first year was honey cake.
But the pièce de resistance came when I heard from reader Marilyn Breitman (née Stitz), who now lives in Calgary, when she phoned me on Monday, August 21 (which is when she received the August 16 issue of the paper with my story about Folklorama).
Marilyn told me that, not only did she remember that the first Israel pavilion alternated between the Rosh Pina and the Shaarey Zedek, she had actually been the female representative of the Israel pavilion that first year. Her title, Marilyn said, was simply “Jewish.”
But, as you might also recall, the entire confusion over where the first Israel pavilion was located began with an email I had received from Roz Greenfeld, who had written to correct my mistake when I had written in the August 2 issue that the Israel pavilion had been located in the YMHA from the very beginning.
Roz pointed out that, in 1971, the second year of Folklorama, the Israel pavilion was located in “Council House” or, as it was better known, “The Golden Age Club,” on Pritchard and Salter. How did she remember that? Roz was the female representative of the pavilion that year. Her title, as I found out was “Miss Judea,” she said.
So, if the Israel pavilion was located at both the Rosh Pina and Shaarey Zedek in that first year of Folkorama, and in the Golden Age Club that second year, where was it after that?
It was left to Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada archivist Andrew Morrison to come up with the answer to that question. Andrew informed me that the Israel pavilion did indeed move to the YMHA in 1972 and remained there for the next 25 years, until it moved to the Asper Campus in 1997.
There was a further footnote to the story, which is when I decided to try my luck with the Winnipeg Public Library’s online archive one more time. This time, rather than searching for “Folklorama,” I tried searching for old copies of both the Free Press and the Tribune from August 1970. I did manage to get results for the Tribune and when I entered a specific search within the Tribune I found a picture of all the famale representatives of pavilions – in bathing suits.
It turned out – and this was corroborated by both Marilyn Breitman and Roz Greenfeld, the female representatives had to parade in unison – in bathing suits, as part of Folklorama festivities. Each year, as well, a queen of Folklorama was chosen. Neither Marilyn nor Roz was made queen, both of them told me, although Roz was voted “Miss Congeniality.”
In addition to finding out about the early days of the Israel pavilion, I also learned that the Chai dancers were not regular performers at the Israel pavilion in those early years – as they eventually did become. Chai performers would dance only one night in those first years, with other entertainment the other nights.
I did enlist Andrew Morrison’s help once again and did find that Chai performed only one evening during the first few years of Folklorama – from 1970 to 1976. In 1977 Chai began performing every night of Folklorama, but there were other performers on hand as well, including Jerry Maslowsky and Rabbi Yosel Rosenzweig. In 1978 the Chai Folk Ensemble was the featured entertainment every evening; however, a notice that appeared in our paper did say that whistler Harvey Pollock would “be on hand” to entertain – whatever that meant.
While some may wonder of what earth shaking importance all this is, I ask: Isn’t it fun to look back in time – for just a little while, instead of worrying about more immediate problems, such as global warming, inflation, terrorist attacks in Israel, and whether Donald Trump will be president while he’s in jail?
Features
EINSTEIN, RITA AND ME
By DAVID R. TOPPER In the early 1960s, when I was an undergraduate student majoring in Physics at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh – there was only one girl in my advanced physics classes. As I learned later, nothing much had changed since the days of Einstein. When he was studying Physics at the Polytechnic in Zurich, the physics classes were all male – except for Mileva Marić, a Serbian who was the first girl in high school ever to take a physics course in the entire Austro-Hungarian Empire. Because Switzerland was the only place where women were admitted to university classes, she was there with Albert in Zurich.
She was very smart, especially in math, and also proficient at the piano. Born with a dislocated hip, Mileva had a slight limp, and the men in the class ignored her – except for one, Albert. They became a couple and eventually married.
Back to me in my university physics classes – where it seems that little had changed for over sixty years. In my advanced classes there was only one girl. Her name was Rita. She mainly stayed to herself. Majoring in Mathematics, she took all the advanced physics courses available, right through the fourth year. In short, in those predominantly male classes, she was an anomaly – alone and ignored by her classmates.
Except me. No, I didn’t date her, yet I didn’t ignore her. During those undergraduate years, I lived at home and took a bus or a trolley to school five days a week, leaving early in the morning. The university is in downtown Pittsburgh. Walking to the campus, I first went to the Physics Department, using it as my base. From there I went to my other classes during the day. There was a small classroom in the Department that was almost always empty, especially in the morning. It could be used for individual studying or small group discussions and such. In the early morning, I was usually the only one there – except for Rita, who used it for studying, too. She often was there, even before me. Usually the conversation started by me saying something like: “Hi Rita, did you get the last problem in mechanics class homework?” Her response was invariably, “Yes.” We would go over it, with her finding my mistakes. We had an amiable relationship that never went beyond our interactions about physics – right up to the end of our university years. As far as I can remember, I don’t think I knew much about her beyond the classroom.
But one event, which I’ll never forget, stands out. It was during our last year of classes in a course on the theory of relativity. For the textbook the prof used a paperback edition of the original papers on the theory. Early in the course, we went through Einstein’s first paper of 1905 – step by step. On this particular day, the prof came in and said he had a problem with the next step in the paper. As we all sat with our books in front of us, he pointed to a certain equation where we ended in the previous class. In the next sentence, Einstein says that such and such follows. The problem for the prof was that he didn’t know how Einstein got that deduction. I looked at it, and didn’t have a clue either.
Just then, Rita’s hand went up. She said she thinks she knows how Einstein got it. The prof asked her to come up to the blackboard and show him. Rita did, and the prof said that she was right. I’m quite sure that – then and there – Rita got an A in that course, if not an A+.
That gives you some idea about Rita and my relationship with her at the time. Not a very significant part of my 4-year undergraduate years – except for this one event in a physics course.
Why then am I bringing this up now, so many years later? Here’s why.
I graduated with my BS degree in the fall of 1964. I then went to graduate school at Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland, majoring in Physics. (It’s now Case-Western Reserve University.)
When I moved there, I lived in a formerly swanky hotel on the edge of the campus, which was purchased by the university as a residence solely for graduate students. They called it The Graduate House. Eleven floors, the top 8 with suites for students, with one floor solely for female students. It was a radical experiment in co-ed living for the time.
My first day there, after getting my room and putting my things in drawers and so forth, it was late in the afternoon – and I was hungry. I had been told when I registered that the dining hall would open the following morning, but for now there was no food. However, on the third floor there were vending machines with sandwiches and such, so I went to find them.
Going down the elevator, exiting at the third floor, and walking down a hall – suddenly I heard my name called. “David, what are you doing here?” Turning around – there was Rita! It was quite a surprise for both of us. This tells you how minimally we interacted before; not even knowing that we both were going to the same graduate school.
I told her that I was majoring in Physics at Case. She, of course, was majoring in Math. After a chat about all this, I said that I was looking for the sandwich machines. She said that there was a diner nearby, and she was going there for dinner with someone else she had just met so I went, too. Thus, Rita and I reunited in Cleveland, now living in the same building.
In a short while, I made friends with a group of people in the Graduate House with diverse majors. Some were in various sciences, others in humanities. It was a lively group, with animated discussions on a range of academic topics, including politics, especially as the Vietnam War became the center of the news in the USA.
Rita was not a part of that group, but I did often see her. Being the eager student that I was, I was up early, getting to the university to study in the library before classes started. Coming to the dining room for breakfast, not long after it opened, I often saw Rita, too – all alone in a far corner. I took my tray and we had breakfast together. Except for that morning ritual, I seldom had any interactions with her.
Thinking about this now, I find the parallel morning rituals (first in Pittsburgh and then in Cleveland) a fascinating serendipitous episode in my life. The difference was that in Cleveland, we were not taking the same courses so we didn’t have to compare solutions to homework. We did talk about our respective courses, and interestingly a parallel appeared. By around mid-term of that first year in graduate school, we both were less than enthusiastic about what we were learning and, accordingly, were both thinking of not carrying on in our respective subjects.
For me it was Quantum Mechanics and the impossibility for us to know reality in itself. Everything was statistical, uncertain and almost esoteric. I found the uncritical attitude toward this world-view to be almost religious in nature. (I only learned later that Einstein felt the same way!)
For Rita, it was the same, despite the different fields. The math now was far beyond basic geometry, algebra and calculus. Topology, Group Theory, Galois’ Theory, and more – all culminating in Gödel’s Theorem, which asserts that all mathematical knowledge is inherently incomplete. It all was too esoteric for her. She knew that she was not going to get a PhD in mathematics.
We commiserated together, with another parallel in our unusual relationship, but with a difference. I still wanted to get my Master’s Degree and somehow still go on to get a job as a professor – that had been my goal in life ever since my first semester at Duquesne. Rita, however, was thinking of dropping out immediately and leaving university life altogether.
For me, this problem was resolved in my second year of Physics at Case, when I took a course taught by Martin Klein. Although he was a physicist in the Department, for many years he no longer was doing research in it. Instead, he was writing papers on the history of the subject – mainly involving Einstein, Boltzmann, Gibbs, Ehrenfest and others. Today those papers are paragons in the field. It was my extremely good luck that the department permitted him to teach such material for the first time.
I loved the course. I was enthralled by the topics – this was the way I wanted to learn physics, through its history. After getting my Master’s in Physics at the end of that year, I moved across campus to the History of Science Department. In another four years I had a PhD in the subject.
Back to early 1965: I tried to talk Rita out of dropping out, but she was adamant. The kicker was this: she really preferred numbers with $$$$ in front of them. Yes, she wanted to be an accountant. She didn’t want to waste any more time here, when she could be home getting her accounting credentials. As I recall, sometime before the spring of that year she went back to Pittsburgh. I’m sure she had an easy time getting her accounting licence and all that went with it. As she was very smart. My guess is that she was an excellent accountant and was very successful in that career.
I have no way of knowing. We didn’t keep in touch (honestly, I don’t know why not) and I can’t even remember her last name. All that I can recall is what I’ve written here. Nonetheless, I find these two interactions between Rita and me an interesting and pleasing tidbit about life and relationships – so much so that I deem it worthy of repeating here.
David R. Topper writes in Winnipeg, Canada. His work has appeared in Mono, Poetic Sun, Discretionary Love, Poetry Pacific, Academy of the Heart & Mind, Altered Reality Mag. and elsewhere.
His poem Seascape with Gulls: My Father’s Last Painting won first prize in the annual poetry contest of CommuterLit Mag – May 12, 2025.
Features
Best Online Casinos Canada (2026) – Trusted Real Money Sites For Canadian Players
A great casino experience goes beyond winning; it’s about fast, secure payouts and reliable service. After reviewing dozens of sites, our top picks for Canadian players are Wild Tokyo, Lucky7, Slots Gallery, Boho Casino, and BitStarz, selected for their payouts, bonuses, security, and overall value.
Top 5 Best Online Casinos Canada Rankings
1️⃣ Wild Tokyo – 250% Up to C$4,500 + 750 Free Spins ✅️
2️⃣ Lucky7 – Up to C$3,000 + 200 Free Spins ✅️
3️⃣ Slots Gallery – Up to C$9,750 + 225 Free Spins ✅️
4️⃣ Boho Casino – Up to C$9,750 + 225 Free Spins ✅️
5️⃣ BitStarz – 300% up to C$2,000 or 5 BTC + 180 Free Spins ✅️
What Makes the Best Online Casinos Canada Stand Out?
The best online casinos Canada offer more than large bonuses. They combine fast withdrawals, secure payment methods, quality game libraries, mobile-friendly gaming, fair terms, and reliable support. With Canadian players increasingly seeking faster verification, smooth CAD transactions, and features like Megaways slots and live dealer games, security, payment reliability, and transparent promotions remain key factors when choosing among the best Canadian online casinos.
Based on these factors, our review highlights five of the best online casinos Canada that stand out for different strengths, helping readers find a reliable casino based on their preferences.
- Wild Tokyo: Best for high-roller rewards.
- Lucky7: Best for flexible bonuses.
- Slots Gallery: Best for slot variety.
- Boho Casino: Best for bonus offers.
- BitStarz: Best for crypto gaming.
Key Criteria for Rating Canadian Online Casinos
Before choosing a casino for real money gaming, it is important to review factors that influence safety, reliability, and overall value. The best online casinos Canada provide secure payments, fair gaming practices, and transparent policies, making them stronger choices for anyone searching for a trusted online casino Canada experience.
- Licensing & Regulation
Many offshore casinos operate under licences such as Curaçao, which provide regulatory oversight, although Canadian players should review individual casino terms and policies. This is an important factor when comparing the best Canadian online casinos.
- Banking Efficiency
The best online casinos for real money provide secure payment options, including e-wallets and cryptocurrency methods, allowing Canadian players to manage transactions with confidence.
- Game Fairness
Independent audits from organisations such as eCOGRA and iTech Labs help verify Random Number Generator (RNG) systems, ensuring fair results across casino games and supporting a trustworthy gaming experience.
- Bonuses & Terms
The best online real money casino choices also focus on clear bonus rules, reasonable wagering requirements, and transparent promotions that deliver long-term value.
In-Depth Reviews of the Best Online Casinos Canada
Our expert reviews of the best online casinos Canada examine bonuses, payment options, game variety, security, and reliability to help readers find trusted casinos for real money gaming.
1. Wild Tokyo: Best Online Casino Canada For Game Variety
Wild Tokyo stands out among the best online casinos Canada for users who value a wide selection of casino games and a flexible gaming experience. Our experts reviewed its overall design, game categories, promotional options, and mobile usability to understand how it performs as a modern best online casino Canada choice.
The casino offers a balanced mix of online slots, jackpot games, table games, and live dealer entertainment. This makes it suitable for users searching for the best online casino Canada real money experience that provides more than one type of gameplay. Instead of focusing on a single category, Wild Tokyo allows users to explore different styles from one account.
For users comparing Canadian online casinos, Wild Tokyo provides a simple browsing experience with easy access to games, promotions, and account features. Its mobile-friendly design also allows users to enjoy casino entertainment through smartphones and tablets without requiring additional software downloads.
Welcome Bonus & Promotions
- Welcome Bonus: 250% up to C$4,500 + 750 Free Spins
- Matchday High Roller Bonus: 110% up to C$2,300 + 270 FS + 3 Coins
- Weekly Bonus: 40% up to C$300
- Daily VIP Cashback: 7%
Key Features
- Large selection of online casino games
- Strong focus on slot variety
- Live dealer entertainment options
- Mobile browser compatibility
- Regular promotional campaigns
- Easy navigation between games and account sections
Our Verdict
Wild Tokyo earned recognition in our review of the best online casinos Canada because it combines variety, accessibility, and convenience in one casino experience. Its extensive game selection makes it appealing for users who enjoy switching between slots, table games, and live dealer options.
For anyone searching for the best online real money casino with a broad entertainment selection, Wild Tokyo provides a well-rounded choice with strong gaming variety and flexible features.
2. Lucky7: Best Canadian Online Casino For Promotions & Banking Flexibility
Lucky7 offers a balanced casino experience with a strong focus on promotions, game variety, and flexible payment options. During our review of the best online casinos Canada, our experts analysed how Lucky7 performs across important areas such as bonuses, game accessibility, account usability, and banking features.
The casino appeals to users who want a Canadian online casino with different entertainment options instead of being limited to one category. Its selection includes online slots, table games, live dealer titles, and other popular casino options, making it suitable for users comparing the best online casinos Canada.
One of the main strengths of Lucky7 is its promotional structure. Along with its welcome offer, the casino provides additional rewards such as reload bonuses and cashback opportunities. This makes it a suitable option for users looking for ongoing value rather than only an initial bonus.
Lucky7 also provides a mobile-friendly experience, allowing users to access games, promotions, and account features through smartphones and tablets. The layout is designed for simple navigation, helping users move between different sections without unnecessary steps.
Welcome Bonus & Promotions
- Welcome Bonus: C$3,000 Welcome Bonus + 200 Free Spins
- Saturday Reload Bonus: 100% up to C$2,000 + 100 Free Spins
- Monday Reload Bonus: 100% up to C$2,000 + 100 Free Spins
- Daily Cashback: 20%
- Weekly Cashback: 10%
Key Features
- Wide range of casino games
- Strong promotional options
- Multiple payment solutions
- Cashback rewards for returning users
- Mobile-compatible casino access
- Easy-to-use account management
Our Verdict
Lucky7 performs strongly among the best online casinos Canada because it combines promotional value, game variety, and convenient account features. Its balance of entertainment choices and rewards makes it a suitable option for users who want more than a basic casino experience.
3. Slots Gallery: Best Online Real Money Casino For Slot Variety
Slots Gallery is designed for users who enjoy exploring different types of slot games. In our review of the best online casinos Canada, our experts examined its game selection, promotional offers, mobile performance, and overall usability to understand why it attracts slot-focused users.
The casino places strong attention on reel-based entertainment, offering access to different software providers, classic-style slots, and modern video games with advanced bonus features. This makes Slots Gallery a suitable choice for users searching for the best online real money casino focused on variety and frequent slot promotions.
For users comparing best Canadian online casinos, Slots Gallery stands out because of its extensive slot collection and organised browsing experience. Players can explore different themes, mechanics, and game formats while accessing promotions designed around regular gameplay. Its mobile-friendly design also allows users to browse games, manage accounts, and access promotions through smartphones and tablets.
Welcome Bonus & Promotions
- Welcome Package: Up to $9,750 + 225 Free Spins
- Loyalty Program: Up to 300 Free Spins
- Daily Cashback: Up to 12.5%
- Game of the Month Promotion: Up to 125 Free Spins
- Crypto Bonus: Up to 1 BTC Daily
- Monday Bonus: Up to 100 Free Spins
- Wednesday Bonus: Up to 100 Free Spins
Key Features
- Large slot-focused game collection
- Multiple software providers
- Regular free spin promotions
- Mobile browser access
- Easy game browsing experience
- Different slot styles for various preferences
Our Verdict
Slots Gallery earns its place among the best online casinos Canada because of its strong focus on slot entertainment, accessible design, and wide range of promotional opportunities.
4. Boho Casino: Top Online Casino Canada For Rewards & Promotions
Boho Casino stands out among the best online casinos Canada for users who value regular promotions, cashback opportunities, and a diverse selection of casino games. During our review, our experts evaluated its bonus structure, gaming variety, mobile experience, and overall usability to understand how it compares with other leading casino options.
Unlike casinos that focus only on a single welcome offer, Boho Casino provides multiple promotional opportunities designed for continued engagement. This makes it suitable for users searching for a best online casino Canada experience with ongoing rewards alongside access to slots, table games, and live dealer entertainment.
The casino offers a broad game collection that appeals to different preferences. While slot games remain a major focus, users can also explore table-based options and live casino titles. This variety helps Boho Casino remain a competitive choice among the best Canadian online casinos for users who want flexibility.
Boho Casino also provides mobile-friendly access, allowing users to browse games, manage accounts, and view promotions through smartphones and tablets. The responsive design helps create a convenient experience for users who prefer playing without being restricted to desktop devices.
Welcome Bonus & Promotions
- Welcome Package: Up to $9,750 + 225 Free Spins
- Loyalty Program: Up to 300 Free Spins
- Crypto Bonus: Up to 1 BTC
- Wednesday Bonus: Up to 100 Free Spins
- Monday Bonus: Up to 100 Free Spins
- Daily Cashback: Up to 12.5%
Key Features
- Strong selection of promotional offers
- Cashback rewards for regular users
- Wide range of casino categories
- Mobile-compatible gaming experience
- Multiple payment solutions
- Easy access to bonuses and account features
Our Verdict
Boho Casino performed well in our assessment of the best online casinos Canada because it combines promotional value with a varied gaming experience. Its focus on cashback, loyalty rewards, and regular offers makes it appealing for users who prefer ongoing benefits.
5. BitStarz: Best Real Money Online Casino For Cryptocurrency Payments & Game Selection
BitStarz completes our review of the best online casinos Canada with its extensive game library, flexible payment options, and strong focus on cryptocurrency-friendly gaming. Our experts evaluated BitStarz based on game variety, promotional opportunities, payment flexibility, and overall user experience.
The casino provides access to a wide selection of entertainment options, including online slots, jackpot games, table games, live dealer titles, and original casino games. This makes BitStarz suitable for users searching for the best online real money casino with a broad range of gaming choices.
Among Canadian online casinos, BitStarz is recognised for combining traditional casino entertainment with cryptocurrency payment support. This appeals to users who prefer digital currency options while still wanting access to familiar casino categories.
The casino also provides mobile browser access, allowing users to explore games, tournaments, promotions, and account features from compatible smartphones and tablets.
Welcome Bonus & Promotions
- Welcome Bonus: 300% up to C$2,000 + 180 Free Spins
- Slot Wars: €5,000 Cash Prize Pool + 5,000 Free Spins
- Table Wars: €10,000 Cash Prize Pool
- Originals Tournament: $5,000 Cash Prize
- Monday Reload Bonus: 50% up to C$300
- VIP Cashback Rewards
Key Features
- Cryptocurrency payment support
- Large selection of casino games
- Wide range of gaming categories
- Tournament-based promotions
- Mobile browser compatibility
- Combination of classic and original games
Our Verdict
BitStarz earned recognition in our review of the best online casinos Canada because of its extensive gaming catalogue, payment flexibility, and wide range of entertainment options.
Casino Bonuses and Promotions for Canadians
Bonuses remain an important factor when choosing the best online casinos in Canada. A trusted online casino Canada option should offer clear promotional terms and valuable rewards that enhance the overall gaming experience. The best Canadian online casinos often include a range of offers, such as:
- Welcome Bonuses
Initial rewards for new users after registration and meeting deposit requirements.
- Deposit Match Bonuses
Extra funds added as a percentage of the deposit amount up to a set limit.
- Free Spins
Complimentary spins on selected slot games, giving players additional chances to enjoy popular titles.
- Cashback Offers
A percentage of eligible losses returned during a specific promotional period.
- Reload Bonuses
Additional promotions available for existing users on selected occasions.
- VIP Rewards
Exclusive benefits, bonuses, and loyalty incentives for regular casino users.
Bonus Terms to Know
Before claiming any promotion at the best online casinos Canada, it is important to understand the conditions attached to each offer. Reviewing these details helps users choose an online casino Canada option with fair and transparent bonus rules. Key terms include:
- Wagering Requirement (Rollover)
The number of times bonus funds must be played through before withdrawal (for example, 35x).
- Game Weighting
The contribution different games make toward rollover requirements, with slots often counting at 100% while some table games may contribute less.
- Expiry Window
The time limit available to complete bonus requirements, which may range from a few days to several weeks.
- Max Bet Limit
The maximum stake allowed while using active bonus funds.
- Eligible Games & Deposit Rules
The games that qualify for bonus play and any minimum deposit requirements.
Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling should always be a priority when using the best online casinos Canada. Real-money gaming should be treated as entertainment, not a source of income. Reliable Canadian online casinos offer tools that help users manage their activity and maintain healthy gambling habits. Key responsible gambling practices include:
- Deposit & Loss Limits: Set spending limits to control your gaming budget.
- Session Timers: Monitor playing time and take regular breaks.
- Self-Exclusion Tools: Temporarily or permanently limit account access when necessary.
- Avoid Chasing Losses: Play within your limits and make informed decisions.
Final Thought
Choosing the best online casinos Canada involves more than searching for the biggest bonuses. Reliable withdrawals, quality game selections, secure payment methods, mobile compatibility, and fair bonus terms all contribute to a better online gaming experience.
Among the reviewed options, Wild Tokyo, Lucky7, Slots Gallery, Boho Casino, and BitStarz stand out as some of the best Canadian online casinos for different preferences. Whether you prefer diverse casino games, rewarding promotions, or flexible payment options, these sites offer different experiences to suit Canadian players in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best online casinos Canada players can consider?
Canadian users can consider Wild Tokyo, Lucky7, Slots Gallery, Boho Casino, and BitStarzamong the best online casinos Canada for bonuses, game variety, secure payments, and reliable gaming experiences.
2. Are online casino winnings taxable in Canada?
No, online casino winnings are generally tax-free in Canada for recreational players, as the CRA does not consider gambling proceeds as regular earned income unless pursued as a full-time business.
3. What is the fastest withdrawal method for Canadian players?
Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT) and e-wallets like MuchBetter offer the fastest cashout speeds, often processing within 0 to 24 hours compared to traditional bank wire transfers.
4. Can I deposit directly using Canadian Dollars (CAD)?
Yes, top online gaming destinations support CAD transactions directly through credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets, helping Canadian players avoid unnecessary currency conversion fees.
5. Are mobile casinos popular in Canada?
Yes. Mobile gaming continues to grow, and most leading casino sites provide fully optimized access through smartphones and tablets.
